About Boarding Schools - FAQs
Why don’t you provide the rankings of your schools?
Given the competitive and selective nature of schools, most independent schools have agreed not to participate in any national or similar ranking systems.
What about health insurance?
All students must have health insurance regardless of whether they are attending a school in Canada or United States. Health Insurance is almost always purchased through the school and it costs anywhere from about $50-$120/month. Health Insurance covers all serious injuries and illnesses. In addition to the peace mind that medical insurance provides, all of our schools have medical centers on campus staffed by medical professionals.
I’ve heard that math and science education in North America is far behind that of the rest of the world. Is this true?
It is generally believed that math and science education in Russian schools is taught at a more accelerated pace than in North American public schools. Many people have stories about how grade 10 students from Russia were placed in grade 12 math classes in the United States. This does not hold true for North American independent schools where students are able to take advanced or college level courses in mathematics and science. For more information on each school’s curriculum, consult the school’s website or our education specialist.
Do we need to have a guardian? Do they cost extra?
When a guardian is required by a country’s visa regulations or a school’s policy, the role of guardian is generally fulfilled by the school’s headmaster or another administrator. There are no additional costs for this service?
How many Russian-speaking students are at Consortium schools?
Very few. In most cases, from zero to two.
What subjects are required at North American boarding schools?
Students may choose their own courses within certain disciplines. Generally students must take courses in the natural sciences, social sciences, the humanities, and foreign languages. Most schools also require that students participate in both an athletic and artistic activity regardless of their natural talent.
Which foreign languages are studied at North American boarding schools?
While North American schools do not have uniform foreign language curricula, the most commonly taught languages are French, German, Latin, and Spanish. Some schools may also offer such less commonly taught languages as Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and Russian. If you or your student has a specific language in mind, please contact our specialist for a free consultation.
Will I receive a diploma upon graduation?
Graduation requirements vary at each school, American state, or Canadian province. However, if you fulfill the requirements for graduation at your school, you will receive a diploma.
Will I be able to visit friends or family on the weekends?
Yes, provided your parents have given their permission. It is of course required that you tell the school where you will be.
What are the mobile phone regulations at boarding schools?
Each school creates its own policy, of course. Cell phones are generally not permitted in classes or at school activities.
Do I have to know English?
The younger you are the less English you need to know before arriving at the schools. For example, grade 9 students with very little English can matriculate and enroll in ESL programs and expect to graduate within four years after grade 12. If you are a grade 11 or grade 12 student, you may need to improve your English before you can take the upper level courses required to graduate from North American schools.
Will I have to do housework?
Students are required to keep their personal space clean and tidy. At most schools, laundry service is available. Food is provided in the cafeterias and common space such as bathrooms and lounges is generally by kept clean by cleaning staff.